Electricity + Control July 2015

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Compact modules for limited space
TheAS-i M8modules from ifmelectronicare suitable for applications
where space is limited.The units have been equipped with ecolink
connection technology and the full potting ensures high shock and
vibration resistance.The compact modules require little space due to
their slim design.They are suitable for robotics, handling technology
and assembly technology.The modules have a protection rating of
IP67/IP68 and are quickly and easily installed via two fixing holes from
the front or from the side.The ecolink technology mounts easily. An
integratedmechanical end stop protects the O-ring fromdamage and
rapid and secure installation is possible without a torque wrench.
. 012 450 0370 or email
Distribution network efficiency in Ghana
The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) is
responsible for the distribution of electricity
in the southern part of Ghana, namely the
Ashanti, Central, Eastern, Greater Accra,
Volta and Western Regions. ECG is owned
by the government of Ghana and provides
electricity to 2,5 million customers.
With increasing demands on the network
from its growing customer base, ECG felt
compelled to improve resilience and cus-
tomer service throughout its operations.
Pressing issues for the ECG ranged from
frequent customer outages to operational
and maintenance costs, which ultimately re-
sulted in common electricity revenue losses
as well as being a significant burden on
the impacted community and businesses,
affecting the economy and potentially dis-
rupting critical infrastructure.
ECG approached Lucy Electric and the
company created a tailored automation
programme in which it would be able to
deliver on ECG’s objectives, including the
design work, manufacture and delivery of
the equipment to Ghana from the UK, within
six months. Lucy Electric also developed a
bespoke training course to ensure that lo-
cal engineers would be able to manage the
equipment as part of Lucy’s after service
care offering. The existing power distribu-
tion network of ECG consisted of 48 439 km
of 33 kV, 11 kV and low voltage overhead
distribution lines. The initial phase of the
project involved automating the network,
which focused on the 33 kV radial overhead
feeders across the regions of Bogoso and
Tokuse, in addition to parts of the 11 kV
underground network in the capital city of
Accra.The automated field devices, such as
the remotely controlled gas-enclosed load
break switch (Rapier GX), were complete
with fault passage indicators and retrofit
with RMU actuators and interfacing Gemini
RTUs/ communication modems.
To give ECG full visual control and data
accessibility to the network, Lucy Electric
installed a standalone Gemini SCADA pack-
age. A key benefit being that the system
architecture can be upgraded to manage
network expansion in the future.
In addition to this, a Gemini DC (Data
Concentrator) was installed, which would
prevent server overloads and minimise
communication traffic.To do this, secondary
RTUs were integrated into the existing DMS/
SCADA systems to provide a centralised and
distributed data process.The installation of
radio repeaters at strategic locations along
the network provided an ideal solution
ensuring that communication functioned
correctly over tough terrain such as rocky
and jungle areas. The high power radio
communication links incorporated 'store
and forward' techniques to enhance the
distances covered.This system was helped
by successful design, manufacture and
delivery of power and distribution equip-
ment to ECG.
ROUND UP CONTROL SYSTEMS + AUTOMATION
Multi-channel device circuit breaker boards
The new multi-channel device circuit
breaker boards from Phoenix Contact are
available with 4, 8, and 12 channels. The
boards are very versatile as they can be
fitted individually with thermomagnetic or
electronic circuit breakers. They are par-
ticularly suitable for machine building and
control and process technology.
Owing to the central potential distribu-
tion, up to four loads can be protected per
channel. This reduces installation time to
a minimum, while simultaneously saving
space compared to conventional installa-
tions. In addition to individual load protec-
tion, the boards give you the option to loop
in safety-related relay contacts. As such,
the affected circuits are integrated into the
safety concept with minimal wiring. In do-
ing so, the switch contacts of the enabling
current paths are protected according to
regulations. A supply of up to 60 A can be
achieved thanks to the high current carry-
ing capacity.
Rayner. Email
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